ALBUM OF THE WEEK # 204 BLUE OYSTER CULT - SPECTRES (1977)

Artist: Blue Oyster Cult

Genre: Rock

Country Of Origin: United States

Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame Member: No

Album: Spectres

Producer: Murray Krugman/Sandy Pearlman/David Lucas/Blue Oyster Cult

RJ's Top 5 Tunes: 1. Golden Age Of Leather...2. Death Valley Nights...3. Godzilla...4. Nosferatu...5. I Love The Night

Disclaimer: All "facts" come from wikipedia.com unless otherwise noted.

Okay, my vinyl kick is over (for now). This week I have Spectres by Blue Oyster Cult for you. I must say, BOC is a new discovery for me. Of course I've heard the big hits, but now I have the complete albums box set, which is where this comes from. And I am definitely into this band right now. About this album:

Spectres peaked at number 43 on the U.S. charts.
It is certified Gold by the RIAA.
It appears as though there were 3 singles released (Goin' Through The Motions/Godzilla/I Love The Night). But I'm not sure about this, because the same article lists Don't Fear The Reaper as a single from Spectres, but it was on the previous album. Either way, I don't think there was much (if any) chart action from these songs.
Godzilla is a classic rock radio staple.
Goin' Through The Motions was covered by Bonnie Tyler on her album Faster Than The Speed Of Night.

This is a cool album. I will say it's front-loaded, with side one being very strong. One thing I've noticed while listening to this album as well as others from the box set is how great the guitar playing is. I've just never given BOC a chance before, and I'll admit that has been a mistake. Yep, some of their songs are weird or have really weird titles, but who cares? Just listen.

Side One:

1. Godzilla

2. Golden Age Of Leather

3. Death Valley Nights

4. Searchin' For Celine

5. Fireworks

Side Two:

6. R.U. Ready 2 Rock

7. Celestial The Queen

8. Goin' Through The Motions

9. I Love The Night

10. Nosferatu